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Kamaru Usman, widely known as “The Nigerian Nightmare,” is a Nigerian-American professional mixed martial artist who has left his mark on the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
A former UFC Welterweight Champion and The Ultimate Fighter 21 tournament winner, Usman’s journey from the wrestling mats of Texas to the octagon’s spotlight is a testament to his skill, grit, and determination. Here’s everything you need to know about Kamaru Usman in 2025.
Who is Kamaru Usman?
Kamaru Usman, born Kamarudeen Usman on May 11, 1987, in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria, is a Nigerian-American mixed martial artist, former freestyle wrestler, and graduate folkstyle wrestler.
At age eight, he immigrated with his family to Dallas, Texas, where his passion for combat sports took root. The son of Muhammed Nasiru Usman, a former Nigerian Army officer, and his wife, Kamaru grew up alongside siblings, including his brother Mohammed Usman, a UFC heavyweight fighter.
Nicknamed “The Nigerian Nightmare”—a moniker blessed by former NFL star Christian Okoye—Usman proudly represents his Nigerian heritage and American upbringing, establishing himself as a dominant force in the UFC.
Early Beginnings
Kamaru Usman’s journey began in Texas, where he started wrestling in his sophomore year at Bowie High School in Arlington. He compiled an impressive 53-3 record and finished third at the Texas state championships.
His wrestling prowess continued at William Penn University, where he qualified for the NAIA national tournament in 2007. Transferring to the University of Nebraska at Kearney, Usman excelled, becoming a two-time NCAA Division II All-American and clinching the 2010 NCAA DII national championship at 174 pounds.
These early achievements in wrestling laid the foundation for his transition to mixed martial arts.
Rise to MMA Dominance
Kamaru Usman shifted to mixed martial arts after failing to qualify for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials in freestyle wrestling.
Training at the U.S. Olympic Training Center and later with the Blackzilians camp in Florida alongside coaches like Jon Jones, he made his professional MMA debut on November 30, 2012, defeating David Glover via TKO at RFA 5. With a 5-1 record in regional promotions, Usman caught the UFC’s attention.
In 2015, he joined The Ultimate Fighter 21, representing the Blackzilians, and won the tournament with a second-round submission over Hayder Hassan, earning a UFC contract. His official UFC debut on December 19, 2015, saw him defeat Leon Edwards. Usman’s pinnacle came on March 2, 2019, when he beat Tyron Woodley at UFC 235 to claim the UFC Welterweight Championship, becoming the first African-born Nigerian to win a UFC title.
As of 2025, Usman competes in the middleweight division, with a notable bout against Joaquin Buckley in Atlanta, holding a record of 20 wins and 4 losses as of 2023.
Achievements
Kamaru Usman’s trophy cabinet reflects his excellence in wrestling and MMA. His standout accomplishments include:
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UFC Welterweight Championship: Won on March 2, 2019, with five successful title defenses.
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The Ultimate Fighter 21 Winner: Defeated Hayder Hassan via submission in 2015.
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NCAA Division II National Champion: Claimed the 174-pound title in 2010.
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U.S. University World Team Member: Represented the U.S. in 2010.
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UFC Records: Tied for the longest win streak in welterweight history (15 fights) and ranked No. 1 in UFC welterweight rankings as of June 2024.
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Awards: Multiple Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night bonuses, including for knockouts of Jorge Masvidal (UFC 261) and Colby Covington (UFC 268).
Usman’s blend of wrestling, striking, and tactical skill has solidified his legacy as one of the greatest welterweights in UFC history.
Personal Life
Kamaru Usman is married to Eleslie Dietzsch, his longtime partner. The couple welcomed their daughter, Samirah, in 2014, and Usman frequently expresses his devotion to fatherhood.
While he keeps his family life private, his bond with Eleslie and Samirah provides unwavering support. His family, including his parents and brother Mohammed, a UFC heavyweight, remains integral to his journey.
Kamaru Usman Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Kamaru Usman’s net worth is estimated at $10 million, per sources like MMA Salaries and other financial reports. His wealth flows from a stellar UFC career, with recorded fight earnings topping $12 million by 2024.
His biggest payday was at UFC 268 against Colby Covington, earning a $1 million base purse and an estimated $1,892,000 with bonuses and pay-per-view shares. Endorsements with Reebok and Trifecta, a meal delivery service, boost his income.
Usman’s love for luxury cars, including a Mercedes-Benz, reflects his success. While 2025 figures may shift with recent fights and deals, he remains one of the richest African-born MMA fighters.
Kamaru Usman Cars
Kamaru Usman loves to spend his money on exotic automobiles.
As of 2024, ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ is said to own a Lamborghini Urus worth over $200,000. He is also said to have lavished over $400,000 on a Rolls-Royce.
Kamaru Usman Social Media
Kamaru Usman stays connected with fans through social media, sharing updates on fights, training, and personal moments. He’s active on Instagram – @usman84kg, where he boasts over 2 million followers, posting workout clips, family glimpses, and motivational content. He is also active on X, under the same handle.
He engages with over 1 million followers, offering fight insights and opinions on MMA.
His YouTube channel features vlogs and behind-the-scenes looks, while his Facebook page rounds out his online presence, keeping fans updated on his journey as of June 02, 2025.
